Home chefs know all about the benefits of olive oil. It’s one of the more healthful oils to cook with, which is why I recommend it as a key ingredient to a healthy lifestyle. There are many varieties, from regular to virgin to extra-virgin. The best one really depends on your taste buds and budget.

Extra virgin is the most expensive and highest-quality olive oil. To qualify as extra-virgin, the olives must be handpicked at the optimum ripeness, giving the oil a rich flavor. When a bottle is labeled just “olive oil,” it contains some imperfections, lacks some of the rich flavor of extra-virgin and costs less.

Virgin olive oil falls somewhere between extra-virgin and plain when it comes to taste and quality. And take caution: Light olive oil is not light in calories, but light in taste and appearance. It’s designed for people who want to use olive oil but don’t like its strong taste.

Here’s another reason to love olive oil: Studies have shown it may reduce cancer risk, lower blood sugar levels and improve heart health. Don’t miss out on the benefits of this wonderful cooking ingredient!